Power, Politics, and People: How Idealism, Realism, and Constructivism Shape Leadership and Development in Nigeria

 

“Why do Nigerians cheer for politicians like heroes during elections, only to watch those same leaders rule like emperors afterward? Is it hope, strategy, or just the brutal reality of power?

This thought-provoking question resonates with many Nigerians, caught between hope and hard realities. Politics isn’t just a distant game of power; it shapes everyday life from the price of food in Lagos markets to security in the North-West and other parts of the country. One must first understand how the economy evolved to grasp Nigeria's current reality.

In the 1960s and 70s, Nigeria's economy showed immense promise. Fueled by agricultural exports, cocoa, groundnuts, palm oil and later, oil discoveries, the country experienced significant economic growth. By 1974, Nigeria was producing over 2 million barrels of crude oil daily, contributing to a GDP growth rate exceeding 8% annually (World Bank, 2020). The Naira, introduced in 1973, even traded stronger than the US dollar. During this period, Nigeria was on a similar trajectory to the Asian Tigers countries like South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, which were also emerging as fast-growing economies. For instance, Nigeria's GDP growth rate matched that of South Korea, which averaged 8-9% annually in the 70s (World Bank, 2020). Both regions had strong agricultural sectors, youthful populations, and burgeoning industrial bases. While the Asian Tigers embraced export-led industrialization and long-term economic planning, Nigeria’s over-reliance on oil revenue and subsequent economic mismanagement steered it off course, a divergence that would later define their contrasting developmental outcomes.

However, the oil boom soon led to economic mismanagement. The 1980s marked a downturn with the global oil glut, plunging prices, and mounting external debt. By 1986, Nigeria adopted the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) under the International Monetary Fund (IMF), aiming to diversify the economy. Instead, it led to deindustrialization, skyrocketing inflation, and mass unemployment. From 1981 to 1985, GDP fell by 7.5% (National Bureau of Statistics, 2022). Today, despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria faces persistent challenges: over 33% unemployment (NBS, 2023), inflation soaring beyond 29% (CBN, 2024), and over 40% of the population living below the poverty line (World Bank, 2024).

Beneath the surface of these economic highs and lows lie powerful political philosophies: Idealism, Realism, and Constructivism each offering a lens to understand governance and societal progress.

Understanding the Three Powerhouses of Political Thought in International Relations

Idealism: The Politics of Principles and Morality

Idealism envisions politics as a force for good, rooted in morality, justice, and the pursuit of an ideal society. It’s the belief that nations and people can rise above self-interest to build a better, cooperative world. Key thinkers of this school of thought are  Immanuel Kant, Woodrow Wilson, among others. The core idea is that human nature is inherently good, and diplomacy, international organizations, and ethical leadership can foster peace and prosperity. For instance, Nigeria’s role in the formation of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) reflects idealist principles. Despite economic and security challenges, Nigeria positioned itself as a regional leader, promoting peace, democracy, and economic integration even deploying peacekeeping troops to countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Domestically, idealist principles also surface in how politicians present their leadership, particularly during campaigns. At both local and national levels, politicians often craft narratives of transformational change, promising to prioritize education, healthcare, and social welfare, echoing the belief that politics should serve the greater good. For example, during the 2015 presidential election, President Buhari’s campaign hinged on restoring integrity and combating corruption, resonating with Nigerians who hoped for a moral revival in governance. His image as 'Mai Gaskiya'  Hausa for 'the honest one'  took on an almost mythical status, especially among the poor, who contributed their modest earnings to his campaign in a show of unwavering belief in his moral leadership. Criticizing Buhari became taboo in many circles, as he was seen as a righteous alternative to the corrupt establishment. However, by the time he left office, this euphoria had largely evaporated and his party won the 2023 election to continue from where he stopped. The economic hardships that followed, exacerbated by subsidy removals, currency devaluation, and inflation turned that hope into widespread disillusionment. Many now argue that the depth of this disappointment has made it harder for future candidates to earn the public's trust, showing how idealism, when betrayed, can backfire and fuel cynicism rather than reform.

However, the gap between rhetoric and reality remains wide. A culture of political docility and low protest tolerance among the masses unintentionally supports this pattern. Many followers cling to the belief that their preferred candidates will eventually fulfill lofty promises, despite evidence of misgovernance. This mindset, rooted in idealist hope, often dissuades sustained activism or demands for accountability. For instance, the muted public response to economic hardships following the 2023 subsidy removal and currency float shows how citizens, driven by a belief in eventual reform, endure adversity longer than in more protest-driven societies. This dynamic, where followers trust idealist visions without sustained pressure on leadership, inadvertently weakens the push for practical, immediate reforms, stalling development and allowing underperformance to persist. Critics believe that idealism often underestimates human self-interest and the relentless pursuit of power. They argued that it can lead to naivety, especially when other nations or political actors play by harsher rules.

Realism: Power and Survival Above All

Realism presents a stark contrast to idealism. It views politics as a struggle for power and security in an anarchic world where self-interest dominates. Key thinkers of this school include Niccolò Machiavelli, Hans Morgenthau, among others. The core idea is that the world is competitive and dangerous. States must rely on their own strength, not international laws or moral values to protect their interests. For instance, Nigeria’s oil diplomacy embodies realist thinking. As Africa’s largest crude oil producer, Nigeria leverages its petroleum resources for international influence. Despite global climate change pressures, the country prioritizes oil revenue to fuel its economy, reflecting a pragmatic approach to national survival. A clear example of this was Nigeria’s stance at the COP26 Climate Summit in 2021, where it pledged net-zero emissions by 2060 but strategically emphasized gas as a 'transition fuel' to safeguard its energy economy. Nigeria's longstanding membership in OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) also allows it to influence global oil prices, demonstrating how national interest drives diplomatic strategy.

This realist approach extends beyond diplomacy into the heart of Nigerian politics itself, from local councils to the national assembly. Politicians often frame their actions around maintaining power and control, rather than pursuing broad-based development. For example, at the state level, governors frequently dominate party structures, handpicking successors to ensure political continuity, a classic realist strategy to safeguard their influence even after leaving office. Similarly, at the federal level, political godfathers and kingmakers, like those seen in Lagos and Kano politics, or the political crisis that has been brewing in Rivers state for two years, godfathers usually manipulate party primaries and electoral outcomes to maintain a grip on power behind the scenes. These power brokers, while unelected, wield immense influence over policies and appointments, ensuring that the system serves entrenched interests rather than the broader populace. This reflects realism’s core principle: survival and dominance over idealistic governance. The trade-offs often include sidelining reforms that might disrupt these power structures, perpetuating a cycle where stability for the elite outweighs progress for the masses.

Domestically, fuel subsidies costing the nation over $10 billion annually (NBS, 2023)  reflected a calculated move to maintain political stability. However, in 2023, the government removed the fuel subsidy, coupled with floating the Naira, allowing market forces to determine its value. This led to a sharp price rise: inflation soared to 29.9% (CBN, 2024), food inflation surpassed 35%, and transportation costs doubled within months. The National Bureau of Statistics reported a 50% increase in the cost of staples like rice and garri, while cooking gas prices surged by over 60%. Many Nigerians saw their purchasing power eroded with no adequate cushioning measures, highlighting the harsh, survivalist nature of realist policies where economic stability and power retention often trump citizen welfare. Critics believe that Realism can foster cynicism, justifying authoritarianism and unethical behavior in the name of “national interest.” This thinking sometimes excuses corruption or military intervention as necessary evils.

Constructivism: The Power of Ideas and Social Context

Constructivism challenges both idealism and realism by arguing that ideas, culture, and social interactions shape political realities. It posits that national interests aren’t fixed; they evolve based on shared beliefs and societal norms. Key thinkers of constructivism include scholars like Alexander Wendt, Nicholas Onuf, among others. The core idea of this school of thought is that people, institutions, and states act not just out of self-interest but according to the “stories” they believe about their identity and role in the world. For instance, the # EndSARS movement a few years back illustrates constructivism in action. What started as a protest against police brutality evolved into a broader push for social change driven by the collective belief that young Nigerians deserved a better, more just society. It reshaped the national conversation on governance, accountability, and youth empowerment.

Beyond activism, Nigerian politicians themselves tap into constructivist strategies crafting narratives to secure followership and legitimacy. At the local level, politicians often frame their campaigns around communal identity and cultural values, positioning themselves as 'sons of the soil' or champions of ethnic pride to win voter loyalty. For instance, gubernatorial candidates in states like Anambra or Kano frequently emphasize regional heritage and religious solidarity, shaping a shared social identity to strengthen political bases. On the national stage, leaders like President Buhari shaped his appeal around integrity and anti-corruption ideals, an image that resonated with Nigerians seeking a moral alternative to past administrations.

However, the power of these narratives cuts both ways. When citizens embrace collective stories of helplessness or tribal loyalty over competence and accountability, it can entrench poor leadership. For example, followers who defend underperforming leaders because they share ethnic or religious backgrounds enable stagnation, reinforcing a culture where identity outweighs performance. This dynamic illustrates how constructivist forces, the social norms and beliefs citizens uphold, can either empower reform or perpetuate harmful systems, directly influencing Nigeria’s development trajectory.  Critics argue constructivism can be too abstract, making it hard to predict political behavior. Additionally, ideas alone aren’t enough without power to back them.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s path to development isn’t a question of choosing between idealism, realism, or constructivism, it’s about blending the strengths of all three. Idealism fuels the moral compass that inspires progress and promotes social justice. Realism grounds leadership in practical strategies that secure stability and national interests. Constructivism empowers citizens to redefine societal norms and demand accountability through shared beliefs. For leaders, the challenge lies in harmonizing these philosophies, leading with ethical conviction while navigating the harsh realities of governance and remaining adaptable to evolving social pressures. For followers, understanding these perspectives is vital. It empowers citizens to engage strategically, balancing hope with pragmatism, pushing for change not just with ideals, but with informed, tactical persistence.

Question for you: Which political philosophy do you think best suits Nigeria’s development right now, idealism, realism, or constructivism? Or is a blend the only way forward?  Share your thoughts, and let’s spark a meaningful discussion about the future of our nation!

******* BY S.B Adams

Further Readings

For readers seeking to explore these political theories more deeply, the following  are some recommended texts and resources:

1. Morgenthau, Hans J. (1948). Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace. New York: Alfred A. Knopf >  This is a foundational text on realism and the pursuit of power.

2. Kant, Immanuel (1795). Perpetual Peace: A Philosophical Sketch. > This book is a classic exploration of idealism and international cooperation.

3. Wendt, Alexander (1999). Social Theory of International Politics. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.>  This is a leading work on constructivism and the role of social structures.

4. Achebe, Chinua (1983). The Trouble with Nigeria. Enugu: Fourth Dimension Publishing.>  This work is a powerful, Nigerian-centered critique of leadership and political culture.

5. Ogundiya, I. S. (2010). Democracy and Good Governance: Nigeria’s Dilemma. African Journal of Political Science and International Relations . > A scholarly analysis of Nigeria’s political challenges.

6. Hobbes, Thomas (1651). Leviathan.  > This foundational work on human nature, authority, and governance, essential to understanding realist thought.

7. Rousseau, Jean-Jacques (1762). The Social Contract.  > A key text on the moral and political underpinnings of idealism.

8. Baylis, John, Patricia Owens, and Steve Smith (2020). The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to International Relations. Oxford: Oxford University Press. > A comprehensive guide covering realism, idealism, constructivism, and beyond.

9. Nye, Joseph S. (2004). Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics. New York: PublicAffairs.>  A nuanced look at how ideas and culture influence political outcomes, aligning with constructivist principles.

10. Diamond, Larry (2008). The Spirit of Democracy: The Struggle to Build Free Societies Throughout the World. New York: Times Books>  Explores democratic development, relevant to Nigeria’s idealist aspirations.